For providers
Information for newborn care teams
Pediatricians, nurses, midwives, lactation consultants and nursery staff are often the first to notice a newborn ear shape difference. Prompt recognition and referral give families the most options while ear cartilage is soft.
Recognize
A quick look at both ears during the newborn exam can identify shapes such as lidding, Stahl’s ear, prominence, constriction and cryptotia. Recognition guide
Refer
Families can call us directly, or your office can contact our team to arrange an evaluation at Dallas, Southlake or McKinney. Referral instructions
Review the evidence
Peer-reviewed reports by Dr. Steve Byrd, MD and other teams describe neonatal ear molding and its outcomes. Clinical evidence
Why timing matters
Neonatal ear cartilage is generally most pliable in the first weeks of life and firms over time. Molding relies on that pliability, so early identification and referral matter. Older infants can still be referred; our clinicians assess each baby individually.
What families experience
Families receive an evaluation, a clear explanation of whether molding may help, an estimate after a benefits check, and, if treatment proceeds, an in-office fitting with scheduled follow-up. How ear molding works.
What molding does not treat
Molding reshapes existing tissue. It does not treat microtia or anotia, ear tags or pits, hearing loss or head shape. Babies with those findings need the appropriate specialist pathway. Microtia and anotia.
Questions from providers
Which babies should be referred?
Babies with an outer ear shape difference such as a fold, pointed upper edge, tight rim, prominence or a buried upper ear. If you are unsure, referral for evaluation is reasonable.
How soon should I refer?
As early as possible after the difference is noticed, ideally in the first weeks of life. Older infants can still be referred.
How do I refer a patient?
See our referral instructions. Families can also call 214-540-1428 directly.
What evidence supports neonatal ear molding?
Peer-reviewed studies, including work by Dr. Steve Byrd, MD and colleagues, describe neonatal molding outcomes. See the research.
Will you update us after the evaluation?
Please ask our team how we communicate with referring clinicians when you refer, so we can follow your office’s preferences.
Refer a family to EarWell Centers
Call 214-540-1428 to arrange an evaluation in Dallas, Southlake or McKinney.